Preliminary work has begun for Operation Phakisa in Basic Education, and the Education Phakisa Lab process will begin in September/October this year, says President Jacob Zuma.

He said the intention of this segment of Operation Phakisa is to further improve the quality of basic education by introducing Information Communication Technology (ICT) into the delivery and management of education.

The President was briefing media, on Thursday, on the progress made in implementing the methodology.

“We are happy with the progress made thus far with Operation Phakisa and look forward to the launch of the new segments.

“The implementation of Operation Phakisa and the Big Fast Results methodology has certainly changed the way government conducts its business and introduced a new approach of syndication to resolve issues,” he said.

The President said government departments are being forced to rid themselves from the “silo mentality” and work together towards a common goal.

“[Operation Phakisa] has compelled government to engage with all stakeholders simultaneously to craft a vision and mechanism for unlocking the economic potential of South Africa’s oceans and other sectors.

“We thank all our stakeholders for supporting this worthwhile project which is changing the way government works for the betterment of society and to improve the quality of life of our people,” he said.